what was the effect that European exploration had on the indigenous peoples of the americas? 1. immunity to smallpox 2. increased wealth 3. decreased population 4. increased land
The European exploration had several effects on the indigenous peoples of the Americas:
1. Immunity to smallpox: The arrival of Europeans brought diseases like smallpox, for which the indigenous populations had no immunity. This resulted in devastating epidemics that decimated the indigenous population.
2. Decreased population: As mentioned above, the introduction of diseases by Europeans, along with conflicts, forced labor, and enslavement, led to a significant decline in the indigenous population. It is estimated that the population of the Americas may have decreased by as much as 90% in some areas.
3. Increased land: European exploration and colonization resulted in the displacement and dispossession of indigenous populations from their lands. Europeans claimed and occupied vast territories, leading to the loss of indigenous territories and resources.
4. Wealth disparity: The arrival of Europeans brought a new economic system based on mercantilism and capitalism. Indigenous peoples were often exploited and forced into labor, resulting in increased wealth for the Europeans while further impoverishing the indigenous population.
It is important to note that the effects varied across different regions and time periods in the Americas. These effects had significant and long-lasting consequences on the indigenous peoples, with the impacts still being felt today.